CMI researchers at Ames National Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight
Innovation
VITELiS (Vacuum-Induced Thermal Extraction of Lithium from α-Spodumene) aims to unlock >95% of Lithium available in domestic hard-rock ore, diversifying the lithium supply.
Achievement
We identified vacuum as a key driving force and, after preliminary optimization, reduced milling energy input by ~95% relative to MELLT while achieving 96–99% Li extraction at the gram scale across three spodumene concentrate grades (75–95% purity), demonstrating broad applicability and process flexibility.
Significance and Impact
- Significantly reducing processing temperature from 1100°C to 800°C
- Complete elimination of harsh acid/alkaline solutions – the technology is acid-/base- and water-free
- Direct one-step extraction
- Possibility to reuse/recycle waste leftover
Hub Target Addressed
- Recovery or purification processes to expand U.S. lithium production
- Highly selective extraction and separations
- Minimizing hazardous chemical use and waste generation
